Portsmouth winger Ronan Curtis has expressed his delight at making his first start for the Republic of Ireland in their 3-1 win over Bulgaria calling it an “unbelievable feeling”.
Curtis made his full debut playing 84 minutes in the international friendly having started each of Portsmouth's opening seven games of the season.
Curtis made an instant impact providing the assist for Preston midfielder Alan Browne opened the scoring.
The win for Ireland was secured by a late goal from debutant Luton Town striker James Collins.
Ireland manager Mick McCarthy made ten changes to the side that drew against Switzerland on Thursday with Curtis replacing first choice left-winger James McClean.
Unbelievable feeling getting my first start for my country memories for life ☘️🇮🇪⚽️ @FAIreland pic.twitter.com/IYOigSzoiu
— Ronan Curtis (@RonanCurtis1) September 11, 2019
Curtis' Portsmouth face Norwich U21s in the EFL trophy on Saturday before returning to League One action on Tuesday against Burton Albion.
Having reached the play-offs last season Portsmouth have faltered so far this campaign.
They currently sit 18th, seven points off the play offs, having managed just one win from their opening five league matches.
BY DAN ALEXANDER
